Using fall accents for interior decorating

Using fall accents for interior decorating

Small white pumpkins in a basket can create a focal point, while simple block letters printed on brown paper bags are an easy way to send a message.

Photo by
Alyson Wright
/Times Free Press.

To bring the autumn spirit into the home, look first to nature.

Joe Jumper, owner of The Clay Pot in Riverview, said he likes to incorporate the elements into simple fall decor.

"I like neutrals, naturals and earth tones," he said.

Earth tones can be incorporated via bedding and fabrics, and don't have to literally come from the earth, for those who are less inclined to actually bring the outdoors inside.

Danielle Sherman, spokesperson for Bed, Bath & Beyond, recommends using bedding in fall colors such as burgundy or dark brown for an autumnal look.

"Since it's typically the biggest piece of décor in the room, changing the bedding changes the overall look and feel of the room," she wrote in an email. "When on a budget, you can just update your pillows, which will still give the room a fresh feel."

A tight budget is definitely a consideration in one of Jumper's favorite methods of decorating for fall: filling large containers with natural items -- a vase full of branches, jars of dried split peas or beans, a bucket of pine cones or small pumpkins.

For those who might not have access to a lot of natural pieces, try craft stores for artificial gourds, branches and more.

While much of decor is visual, Sherman suggested incorporating other senses through scented candles in autumn aromas like apple or pumpkin pie.

Texture is an easy, inexpensive way to add an autumnal feel. For a recent wedding, Jumper said, he wrapped cylindrical vases with burlap for a rustic look.

"Everything is more casual now," he said, "not so formal, but I think keeping things more monochromatic keeps it a little formal."